STOP the toxic chemicals the timber industry is spraying into our communities.

Over 30 years of spraying toxic chemicals is long enough. Citizens throughout the state are simply seeking the Peace, Safety and Happiness afforded us in Oregon’s Constitution. As well as what should be a given: Our Right to Health. Citizens are forced to live with highly toxic chemicals, often sprayed by helicopters into neighborhoods and communities throughout our state by the timber industry and with zero recourse. The poisons are used as the "fast, cheap and easy method" to kill competition for sun and water, to the conifer trees planted after their clear-cutting.

Oregon's long history of spraying these poisons needs to end. Chemicals such as Atrazine - banned in the EU since 2003, 2,4-D - half of Agent Orange, and Glyphosate - a known endocrine disruptor have no place in a healthy society nor residential neighborhoods. The fact Corp profits hold more value than people’s health and lives is unconscionable. Why would any state want or allow toxic chemicals to be sprayed into the air we share, next to our schools, homes, businesses and water resources? Yet, Oregon crafted the Right to Farm and Forest Act to literally protect the industry, while preventing ANYONE from holding those suspected of chemical trespass accountable.

Oregon’s 2011Chemical Exposure Investigation determined probable trespass, yet remains on hiatus. The investigation needs to resume immediately, especially knowing spring is the peak season for more spraying. Due to Oregon rules, laws, and regulations the only person with the power to stop the spraying is our Governor. We need Governor Kitzhaber to issue an Emergency Moratorium. A precautionary break from these toxins, especially with the current investigation on hold and zero monitoring taking place. A Moratorium would allow time for the investigation to begin anew, initiate the much-needed Drift studies, determine the cause of the trespass and resolve this issue, once and for all. Visit www.stop-oregon.org or www.preciousdirt.org for the full story.

Letter to

Governor KitzhaberState of Oregon

I just signed the following petition addressed to: Governor Kitzhaber and the State of Oregon.

Dear Governor, This message is to urge you to issue the much needed moratorium that would stop the toxic herbicides being sprayed into residential communities throughout Oregon by the timber industry. These practices, whether by helicopter or backpack have a history of causing harm. Along with posing far too great a health risk for citizens, as well as the health of the air, water resources, animals, environment and all on the receiving end of these poisons.

Far too many are sick from years of these practices, including many of Oregon’s children. As health has been a key issue on Oregon's agenda, we are urging you to stop these applications. The health of many is far too great a risk. The Forest Service has proven toxic chemicals are not necessary, and there is no valid reason why timber cannot follow suit.

This precautionary step of issuing a Moratorium would allow the state's Investigation to begin anew, determine how so many were exposed to timber chemicals, and devise a plan that finally protects Oregon citizens and their future from the health risks they now face.